Ashley Brinkman's Real Estate Blog

Jan

15

Economic Outlook: 2018

Hello 2018! Things are looking pretty good!

At the end of each year (or beginning of new year) I attend some awesome Economic Forecasting presentations. The projections are often on a National and Local level, with a focus in the real estate sector.

I take notes during the presentation and like to share what I have learned with you, so below will be some highlights, and a few graphs from the slides.

In December I attended the Austin Chamber of Commerce Economic Forecast (Thanks April Downey of Independence Title for allowing me to be your guest!) The Speaker was Mark Vitner.

Below are some bullets that I jotted down, forgive the randomness, but take it all in, please (and if you’d like the presentation, happy to send over, I know my charts aren’t very large).

Not in Bubble, demand is still here

Growth (GDP) has picked up, 38% in tech, 30% in energy, in Tx oil has held us back some

Dramatic slow down of policy changes, which has helped biz boom/growth

• Industrial production and manufacturing positive but little help on employment

• Housing improving, not fully recovered

• Jobs expand <2%; unemployment rate ~4.0%

If you have some questions on what the tax implications are with the new reform happening–Here is a good article summing it up!

I hope you found that information helpful (and optimistic). I know my 2018 is already off to a great start, (pretty rare for me to be this busy this time of year) but I am definitely not complaining! Thank you for your business and trust in this crazy market!

If you are thinking of making a move in real estate (buying, selling, purchasing an investment) happy to chat further, you can find some past (happy) client testimonials HERE.